General and sexual satisfaction with the couple relationship according to the gender

Abstract

General and sexual satisfaction are interrelated dimensions that condition any type of couple relationship. This study examines both dimensions, taking gender into account, 237 couples participated in the study, completing a 13-item questionnaire whose construct validity was analyzed using exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses, obtaining two factors having excellent overall reliability (α = 0.92). Results reveal higher rates of general satisfaction in men, but lower rates regarding certain aspects of sexual satisfaction. Best general satisfaction predictors were feeling taken care of for women whereas men need to perceive that their partner is concerned when they are sad or upset. The best predictor, for both genders, is satisfaction with their couple relationship.